Discover Upper East Side's Hidden Dining Gems
Natasha Surti
Sundays are for Brunch 🥂 🍽Where I went: Bubby’s ✔️What I got: Fried Chicken & Pancakes 💰What I paid: $25 ⠀ 🤔What I think: A group of us happened to stumble upon Bubby’s while walking to the pier on the west side last summer and we knew we wanted to go here for brunch when we walked past someone eating this very dish! The chicken was seasoned perfectly and had just the right amount of breading on the outside so the batter on the outside wasn’t too heavy. The pancakes were cooked to perfection as well and the sweetness of them with the maple syrup complemented the fried chicken.
Foodie_NYC
Shakshuka. The best breakfast in the world! I had brunch this Sunday at Tara and I came for the Shakshuka, a Mediterranean tomato stew with eggs. Yummmmmmmm. Definitely the best breakfast in the world. Rich. Spicy. Yummy. Filling. They definitely do it well at Tara… You know you want it…
Infatuation
Bubby's Starting with the food, it’s my favorite brunch spot in the city. Whenever I have people visiting I always take them there. They have the best gluten-free pancakes in the world—my friends always say they’re just as good as the regular ones, they’re so sweet and fluffy and yummy. But I really like that their bathroom is gender neutral with floor to ceiling doors, and they also have a photo booth. It’s so fun when you’re out with friends and you want to take photos.
Davina⚡️NYC
Had an amazing brunch recently at Jazba NYC. We’re no expert on Indian food, but we honestly loved everything we had there. We grew up eating Indian food in Malaysia, and lived in New Delhi for a bit before our move to NYC and this meal took us right back to India. A vibrant new restaurant from the team behind Junoon, Jazba is bringing India’s colorful hawker food and culture to NYC! (Looking forward to trying their dinner menu soon) Tip: definitely get the Basket Chaat!
Infatuation
We’ve been looking forward to Bánh By Lauren’s opening for months—and the pandemic-era popup business turned elegant Chinatown bakery does not disappoint. Their signature pandan honeycomb cake is as pleasurably chewy as a lively conversation, while the moist, flavor-packed chinese sausage, cheddar & chive scone may be even more exciting. There’s also a Vietnamese-inspired coffee menu to play around in: We’ll be drinking the big-time refreshing, sweet-and-sour iced Lime Drip all summer. The bakery is currently open from Thursday to Sunday.
Infatuation
Ras Plant Based A vegan and a meat-eater enter a plant-based Ethiopian restaurant. A couple of hours later, they both leave completely satisfied—and with the newfound knowledge that vegan nacho cheese is far superior to the real (fake) stuff. Such miracles can happen at the second location of Ras Plant Based in Greenwich Village. The menu here is essentially the same as their original spot in Crown Heights, except for the injera nachos, which you must order, because that’s where that melty vegan cheese comes into play. Add on a few cocktails and a mercato platter, with lots of spongy injera for scooping up creamy ground chickpeas, and you’ve got a feast for friends who love legumes, and those who'd normally rather be eating meat.
Gluten Free Girls LA
SOGNO TOSCANO SPECIALTY FOODS - one of the best places I have spent a Sunday afternoon in a long time. Live music on the cozy patio, attentive helpful staff and incredible food. Spent an hour and a half enjoying our food and conversation and we’re not rushed out.. a luxury to have these days. They also have soups and multiple salads that are gluten free (just be sure to ask the wonderful wait staff). Among their House beaked pastries they have one clearly marked gluten free banana bread (I did not ask about others). They also had multiple desserts that were naturally gluten free (gelato, crème brûlée etc.).
See alsoDining in Great Neck: Discover Local Experiences, Foodie Favorites & Trending Dinner Spots Near NYC
Eater
I’m a huge fan of old-fashioned ice cream parlors with a dine-in menu and the curvy ice cream parlor chairs. Veniero’s, open since 1894, is a variation on it: long on charm, a respite from summer heat, and a fine place to order a sweet treat — perhaps in lieu of dinner. Stop in for a cannoli, a fruit tart, or a slice of Sicilian cheesecake, paired with a shot of sambuca dressed with coffee beans. The people watching here is A+. Open until 11 p.m. weekends.
Secret NYC
Cool off with ice cream at Caffe Panna’s new Brooklyn location! Caffe Panna has officially opened its first Brooklyn location! The new location in Greenpoint spans 4,700 square feet with both indoor and outdoor seating. Customers can get excited for the new menu item, granitas, only available at the Brooklyn shop.
Natasha Husein
Escape to the italian countryside without leaving Manhattan. The most beautiful spring brunch is at Olio e Più | Trattoria & Enoteca this weekend. Pasta, pizza, and aperol spritz! The best way to start off the season. 🍝
Infatuation
The Best Sandwich Shop in NYC! Faicco's Italian Specialities A West Village staple with an army of employees pacing behind an L-shaped counter, Faicco’s has been on Bleecker Street since the 1940s. Originally, it was just a pork store, but now the little shop sells Italian pantry items, prepared foods, and oversized sandwiches that could sink a small sailboat if thrown correctly. Head to the back, and you’ll see a few whiteboards with signature offerings, like a meatball parm and a sandwich with sausage and broccoli rabe. If you’re feeling like a pioneer, you can customize your order with anything from sundried tomatoes to fistfuls of bacon. The Order: The sandwich that comes with a stack of chicken cutlets, stretchy melted mozz, and housemade pesto that leaks out the sides.
New York City Dreamland
REYNA NYC is one of those restaurants that provides the best is the food!! There is absolutely no shortage in options of places to have a delicious meal, a refreshing cocktail, or an overall great experience in a beautiful space to enjoy the day/night.✨ Its Mediterranean brunch menu offers everything from Baklava French Toast to Short Rib Grilled Cheese. And don’t skip on the cocktail menu! REYNA has curated some very creative and intriguing brunch cocktails inspired by the vibrant cuisine across the Mediterranean to include on their list.🥘🥂 Step inside this new hot spot for a fun brunch outing with your friends, a solo drink at the bar, or a date night for a romantic dinner. You’ll leave with the urge of wanting to go back for more!🏙️💫
New York City Dreamland
Little Ruby’s Cafe NYC is stunning, delicious, and all around a 10/10 experience. Definitely one to revisit!💕
Natasha Husein
Weekends are for pretty brunches 🌸 and for Recette Bklyn Restaurant. Cozy Williamsburg bistro with tasty dishes & unique specials. Number one restaurant on Tripadvisor among almost 3,000 restaurants in Brooklyn!
See alsoDiscover the Vibrant Community in Great Neck Near NYC: Local Insights, Trending Discussions & Anonymous Posts
ResX
We snagged seats at the bar Golden Diner in Chinatown, and it’s safe to say, the hype is well-deserved. While their honey butter pancakes steal the show, every dish we tried was a hit. They only accept walk-ins during weekend brunch, but their breakfast menu is available everyday until 5pm. ✨Honey butter pancakes ✨Egg & cheese sando ✨Thai cobb salad ✨Chicken katsu sandwich ✨Sam’s tuna melt ✨Korean fried chicken wings
Time Out New York
Pinkies up! It's time for a tea party at Time Out Market. But this tea party is elevated—literally—and even boozy. Every Tuesday this summer, from now through August 27, enjoy Tazo Tuesdays at Time Out Market with tealicious cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages at the bar. Sip on TAZO tea-based cocktails and mocktails, plus taste various TAZO teas at Time Out Market New York. It's free to get in; just purchase your drink of choice.
katya ann
MUST TRY brunch spot in the West Village, NYC!🥞🥑✨ Commerce Inn: hidden gem with the fluffiest pancakes & bomb breakfast plate.
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
Somewhere Nowhere NYC is a multi-level and vibrant rooftop escape, found on the top floors of the Renaissance New York Chelsea Hotel. Here you find a magical, whimsical and 5,516-square-feet indoor garden lounge for fun through the evening and night, but also a top floor open-air rooftop terrace, equipped with a luxurious rooftop pool. Being the tallest hotel rooftop pool in NYC, it is no surprise that Somewhere Nowhere offers you the chance to swim with some amazing and panoramic 360° views over the Manhattan skyline. Get comfy in one of the loungers and enjoy tropical cocktails and tapas-style light bites. After a day of relaxation, you will be ready to join in on the fun with live DJs at the rooftop bar.
ResX
BuvetteNYC The perfect place to brunch in the West Village ☕️ Our server insisted that we get the last order of Pain Perdu (brioche bread with berries & crème) and it did not disappoint!🤤 ✨Pain Perdu ✨Crq Monsieur ✨Jambon Cru ✨Belgian Waffle
katya ann
Fresh & AFFORDABLE AUSSIE STYLE hand rolls in the West Village 🍣💯✨ for just $12 you can get 3 rolls 😍 8 flavors to choose from with a monthly special! 📍Save this spot for your next takeout night in NYC!!
newyorkcity.explore
Wahizza is known for its unique pizza creations in which traditional Italian flavors are infused with Mexican influences. 🤩🍕 Their pizzas often feature bold toppings like chorizo, jalapeños, and cilantro, giving each slice a distinct and flavorful twist that sets them apart from traditional pizzerias. Have you tried this new mix yet?
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ResX
Swoony's Brooklyn is a charming American bistro that’s already winning hearts. Their burger, served on a Portuguese bun, may have cracked our top 10 list. Don’t miss out on the short rib au poivre, and if you’re looking for a sweet finish, their French toast pairs perfectly with the soft serve!
The Ultimate Guide to Local Restaurants in Upper East Side, NYC
Discovering Hidden Gems
When it comes to dining in NYC’s Upper East Side, the area offers an eclectic mix of hidden gems that even the most seasoned foodie might overlook. Starting your culinary journey at local favorites like ‘Uva’ and ‘J.G. Melon’ is a must. ‘Uva’—a cozy Italian restaurant with a charming backyard—brings a delightful taste of Italy to NYC. Don’t miss their truffle gnocchi, a local favorite that keeps patrons coming back for more. Meanwhile, ‘J.G. Melon’ serves one of the city’s best burgers. Locals often rave about the perfectly crispy fries that are simply irresistible.
Farm-to-Table Experiences
For those interested in a sustainable and locally-sourced dining experience, the Upper East Side boasts some exceptional farm-to-table venues. ‘The East Pole’ stands out as a champion of fresh, seasonal ingredients. This upscale spot serves a menu that changes with the seasons, ensuring a fresh and unique experience each time you visit. Don’t miss their brunch menu, where dishes like poached eggs on avocado toast are elevated with farm-fresh produce.
Brunch Hotspots
Brunch is a beloved tradition in the Upper East Side, and local restaurants here do not disappoint. ‘Sarabeth’s’ is an iconic spot that offers a brunch experience to remember. Try their renowned lemon ricotta pancakes or their classic Eggs Benedict. Another popular choice is ‘Maison Kayser,’ a French bakery where each item is as delectable as the next. Indulge in their freshly baked croissants or quiches for a meal that transports you instantly to Paris.
Elegant Dining for Dinner
If fine dining is what you seek, the Upper East Side presents a number of sophisticated options that promise memorable dinners. ‘Café Boulud,’ helmed by the celebrated chef Daniel Boulud, offers an elegant dining experience featuring French-American cuisine. Their seasonal dishes and expertly crafted cocktails make it a perfect destination for a special night out. Another top dinner choice is ‘The Mark Restaurant by Jean-Georges,’ where exquisite dishes like black truffle pizza and seared scallops take center stage.
Trending Eateries and Cocktail Bars
Keeping up with the latest dining trends, the Upper East Side is home to several trending eateries and cocktail bars that provide a modern twist on classic favorites. ‘Treadwell Park’ combines craft beer with gourmet comfort food, offering a lively atmosphere that’s perfect for socializing. Their selection of small-batch brews and artisanal snacks, like pretzel bites with beer cheese, is a hit among locals. For a delightful cocktail experience, ‘The Penrose’ stands out with its inventive drinks and cozy ambiance. The bar’s signature cocktails often feature seasonal ingredients and cater to a sophisticated palate.
Local Insights and Real Opinions
One of the best parts about exploring the Upper East Side’s dining scene is connecting with locals who offer invaluable insights and real opinions. Platforms like Kikihub enable anonymous chats, giving you access to local secrets that can elevate your dining experiences. Through Kikihub, you might learn about a secret menu item at ‘Heidi’s House,’ a quaint, unassuming spot known for its eclectic, homey dishes. Or you could discover the best time to visit ‘Lexington Candy Shop,’ a vintage luncheonette where the milkshakes and quintessential American diner fare have been loved by generations of Upper East Siders. Taking advantage of such local knowledge can make all the difference in uncovering the true essence of Upper East Side’s culinary landscape.